Cool, Geeky USB Gadgets

Looking for the most useful, beneficial gadgets to plug into your PC? Here are some of the absolute coolest accessories any geek would be happy to stick in a USB port.

The USB—or universal serial bus—is the primary way we connect peripheral gear to our computers. With the advent of USB 3.0 (also known as "SuperSpeed USB") in 2008 and its 5Gbps transfer rate—a speed ten times faster than 2.0—USB has only gotten ever more useful, particularly when it comes to external storage devices.

USB 3.0 has not stopped people from making bizarre USB-based devices though. Storage devices can use that faster connection, and come in ever wackier shapes and sizes, such as Iron Man's helmet and a working butane lighter for smokers who need some extra storage. The fact that USB ports are great for charging devices means there are items like the questionable USB shaver for, apparently, taking off your chin whiskers while you're at the computer. There's even a USB Pet Rock out there. Really now, who needs this stuff?

We decided to skip the strange USB gadgets out there this time. Instead, this list concentrates on peripherals that are truly cool and beneficial to your computing life. We didn't even include storage devices like USB flash memory drives or external hard drives. (You can however, check out our six favorite USB flash drives.) There are no USB hubs for extending the number of USB products you plug in, either—that's too easy. (Okay, maybe one exceptionally useful hub, just because…) These devices all offer your laptop or desktop PC some sort of extra functionality. We're talking sound, portable displays, image manipulation, PC control, biometrics, and more. Most come at affordable prices as well, so they make great gifts for the techno-geek on your gift list.

Got more gadgets to add? Share them with us in the comments section below.

Automatic Renewal Program: Your subscription will continue without interruption for as long as you wish, unless
you instruct us otherwise. Your subscription will automatically renew at the end of the term unless you authorize
cancellation. Each year, you'll receive a notice and you authorize that your credit/debit card will be charged the
annual subscription rate(s). You may cancel at any time during your subscription and receive a full refund on all
unsent issues. If your credit/debit card or other billing method can not be charged, we will bill you directly instead. Contact Customer Service